Atelier RZLBD

Atelier RZLBD, established in Toronto following founder Reza Aliabadi's relocation from Tehran in the early 2000s, has evolved into a distinguished architectural practice known for its paradigm-shifting residential interventions and theoretical explorations. The studio, led by Aliabadi (RZLBD), operates at the intersection of art, architecture, and urbanism, crafting spaces that challenge conventional typologies while responding sensitively to contextual demands.

The practice's philosophical foundation was shaped by Aliabadi's formative experiences, including his architectural education at the University of Tehran and subsequent scholarly work at McGill University. Through a series of transformative expeditions—from the Canadian Arctic to a global architectural pilgrimage—the studio developed its characteristic approach to spatial composition, emphasizing the dialogue between void and matter.

Working with a core team of design professionals, including James Chungwon Park, Atelier RZLBD has garnered international recognition for its minimalist aesthetic and innovative response to urban constraints. The firm's portfolio spans residential, commercial, and cultural projects, each embodying their principle of "positive virus"—architecture that actively contributes to and challenges its context. Their work has been widely published and has received numerous awards, establishing the atelier as a significant voice in contemporary Canadian architecture.